Picture Book Lists

An overview of Day of the Dead, from the origin of the celebration to how it is practiced today. Clear, interesting text and vibrant photos grab and hold readers' interest, and QR Codes in each chapter link to book-specific videos, activities, and more.

"Day of the Dead is a very important holiday in Latin America. It is sometimes incorrectly thought of as a morbid holiday, or a Mexican version of Halloween. While the word "dead" or "muertos" is in the name, this holiday is the way that the people of Mexico honor the lives of ancestors, celebrate the joy of life, and connect with their Mexican heritage. Young readers will enjoy the amazing, colorful photographs of the Day of the Dead celebration, and a supportive glossary helps expand their vocabularies along with their cultural awareness." - description from Amazon

"Thinking of loved ones who have died is often depressing. But in Latin America and Hispanic communities, people celebrate the lives of their loved ones who have passed. Day of the Dead is a time of great celebration and joy. People make altars called ofrendas with pictures, gifts, treats, and flowers to remember their loved ones and help them on their journey. Families gather for picnics in cemeteries and eat special treats. Parades featuring skeleton costumes and music bring communities together. This tradition is most widely celebrated in Mexico and in Mexican-American communities in the United States. Readers will discover the joy and excitement of Day of the Dead through vibrant photographs and age-appropriate text"-- Provided by publisher.

"On Día de los Muertos, a family prepares an ofrenda for their favorite furry family member, remembering all the ways that their beloved pet brought love and comfort to their lives"-- Provided by publisher.

Rhyming text presents traditions used to celebrate the Day of the Dead.

"El Día de los Muertos, Day of the Dead, is here--a holiday for celebrating the lives of departed family and friends. Altars are decorated with sugar skulls and marigolds. Tamales and sweets are ready to eat. Soon it will be time for picnics, music, and a costume parade! Come join in these joyful and vibrant festivities that are a tradition in Mexico and throughout Latin America"--Dust jacket.

Losing a pet is hard, but this picture book told through a Day of the Dead celebration will show readers that the love they have for their beloved companion will always remain. Benito loves Perro. But when Perro passes away, Benito is heartbroken. During the Day of the Dead celebration, he tries to understand the meaning of the flores de cempasuchil, candles, pan de muertos, photographs, and sharing memories of departed loved ones. By creating his own special altar for Perro, he realizes that his love for his beloved companion, and the happiness Perro gave him, will always remain. Told with honesty and hope, this heartfelt book is the perfect story for any child coping with loss, and for those who celebrate--or want to learn more about--Día de los Muertos. - description from publisher

Funny Bones tells the story of how the amusing calaveras--skeletons performing various everyday or festive activities--came to be. They are the creation of Mexican artist José Guadalupe (Lupe) Posada (1852-1913). In a country that was not known for freedom of speech, he first drew political cartoons, much to the amusement of the local population but not the politicians. He continued to draw cartoons throughout much of his life, but he is best known today for his calavera drawings. They have become synonymous with Mexico's Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festival. Juxtaposing his own art with that of Lupe's, author Duncan Tonatiuh brings to light the remarkable life and work of a man whose art is beloved by many but whose name has remained in obscurity. The book includes an author's note, bibliography, glossary, and index.

Gustavo is good at doing all sorts of ghostly things: walking through walls, making objects fly, and glowing in the dark. And he loves almost nothing more than playing beautiful music on his violin. But Gustavo is shy, and some things are harder for him to do, like getting in a line to buy eye scream or making friends with other monsters. Whenever he tries getting close to them, he realizes they just can't see him. Now that the Day of the Dead is fast approaching, what can he do to make them notice him and to share with them something he loves?